Daniel Gafford's shooting will give Mavericks' offense a new wrinkle

The Dallas Mavericks were a bottom-five 3-point shooting team in the NBA last season. The team struggled to find consistent shooters. Plus, a lack of ball handlers and spot-up shooters didn't help fix the issue.

The Mavs' offense, though, could get a much-needed boost with Kyrie Irving's return. His presence alongside Daniel Gafford's improved 3-point shooting could move the needle for an offense desperately looking for answers after a 26-win season.

The Mavs' coaching staff will try to diversify Gafford's game by putting him in uncomfortable situations and encouraging him to shoot open threes. This will be huge for the big man if he is a starter while Dereck Lively II is out of the lineup.

Daniel Gafford is going to start shooting 3-pointers?

Three seasons ago, Gafford played a key role in the Mavericks advancing to the NBA Finals. He averaged 11.2 points and 6.9 rebounds in 29 games, while shooting 78 percent overall. His post-up work inside was a major factor in his success. Plus, it helped that Luka Doncic led the offense, as he provided Gafford with many lob opportunities.

Now, Gafford is ready to add another weapon to his offensive game. The Mavs' potential starting center is expected to take his 3-point shooting to the next level.

In a recent interview, Gafford discussed the Mavs' plan to utilize him in different ways. He is ready to help his team improve the offense, even if that means shooting 3-pointers, something he isn't accustomed to.

"Of course, it’s going to be uncomfortable at first, but I feel like the first couple of misses, I think I’ll knock the rust off and be able to knock a couple of shots down,” Gafford said. "I’m looking forward to it. They’re putting a lot of faith in me to be able to take those shots, so it’s only right that I do the same for myself.”

This is all part of a new plan set forward by new coach Dusty May, as he tries to look for different ways to elevate the Mavs' offense.

Mavs' new offense could finally move the needle

As mentioned, the Mavericks' offense is looking for ways to improve under the new head coach. Their 3-point shooting was an issue, as they ranked near the bottom in 3-point attempts per game. The team attempted 31.9 long-range shots per game, the fourth-worst number in the league.

Newcomer Sergio De Larrea could make life easier for Dallas. He is a bright spot in training camp, showing off his strong shooting form from overseas. The European guard is expected by many fans to contribute immediately and help the Mavs overcome last season's struggles.

Yet, the biggest change could be Dusty May's plan to increase Gafford's 3-point attempts. The Mavs' coach outlined a plan to make the Dallas center a solution to the team's Achilles' heel from a season ago.

"He’s going to shoot a few rhythm threes. He’s going to rim protect. We’ve got to get him a little bit better at switching on the smaller players, but he has a lot of ways that he can help this team," May said.

May's plan is the perfect solution that should help the team take a leap next season. Daniel Gafford will be a key component of their growth. If the Mavs' center continues to develop his game, then the team will get something they've never gotten out of him: reliable floor spacing and shooting.

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